Kevin Garnett saw the writing on the wall. While the veteran would have enjoyed another season in Boston, it was clear his time was coming to an end. After the Celtics were eliminated from the postseason, rumors ran wild general manager Danny Ainge would be doing a complete overhaul of the entire roster. Garnett new the truth.
While being introduced as one of the newest members of the Brooklyn Nets, Garnett said he believed it was time to go when he saw what was happening to head coach Doc Rivers. Ainge opted to trade Rivers to the Los Angeles Clippers, prompting Garnett to waive his no-trade clause and head out.
"I don't like change much. Once I commit to something, I like to go at it, full throttle. Unfortunate. But you know obviously when I saw the Doc Rivers situation, I kind of knew the writing was on the wall, even before then. I had my connections there. It's tough leaving Rondo and other things. But new chapters. New things to embrace and that's what I'm doing," Garnett said.
Garnett credits Rivers for helping him become the player he is today and when he knew the coach was headed out, it was only a matter of time before he left too. Garnett feels that Brooklyn was the best fit for him, mainly because Paul Pierce was traded with him along with Jason Terry. Garnett likes comfort and this trade offered the most of that.
"Obviously, we're doing this together, through the whole ordeal, we're figuring it out. Paul and I have been friends since 14, so we've talked numerous and countless times. Walking through this situation and giving him stories about my situation coming from Minnesota going to Boston," Garnett said.
The new Nets have a championship on the brain. Pierce admits that it was hard to leave Boston, a place he had spent his entire career, but he ultimately wants another ring and Brooklyn will give him the best opportunity to do that.
"Obviously I would've loved to have finished my career in Boston, but that day and age is finally over with. My ultimate drive is winnings a championship," Pierce said.
Garnett believes that the key for Brooklyn to be great is sacrifice from every player. The veteran knows a thing or two about winning a title and the main factor will be every player getting out of their comfort zone and adapting to a new style. The Nets' projected starting five will be Garnett, Pierce, Deron Williams, Joe Johnson and Brook Lopez. Combined, they have 35 All-Star appearances and once chemistry is built, potential is through the roof.